Last Judgment c. 1460 - 1470

This woodcut print of the Last Judgment presents Christ in his role as judge, flanked by supplicants. He raises a sword of justice and the olive branch of peace. The symbols here are not static; they transform and are reborn across cultures. Take, for instance, the sword. Here, it signifies divine justice, but it also evokes older, more primal associations with power and authority, echoing in the swords of ancient warriors and mythical heroes. The olive branch, a symbol of peace, finds its roots in classical antiquity, where it represented victory and abundance. Yet, its adaptation into Christian iconography signifies reconciliation with God. Consider how these symbols tap into our collective memory, stirring deep-seated emotions linked to judgment, hope, and redemption. The image is not just a representation of a theological concept but a psychological drama, engaging us in a timeless quest for salvation.